In brief
Lawrence Reed has been charged with federal terrorism for allegedly setting a woman on fire inside a Chicago commuter train. Prosecutors described him as a danger to the community, highlighting his extensive criminal history. Reed is held without bail and is awaiting trial, with potential life imprisonment or the death penalty if the victim succumbs to her injuries. The incident, where the victim was doused with gasoline while scrolling her phone, has received national attention due to its shocking nature.
A man accused of setting a woman on fire inside a Chicago commuter train has been ordered to be held behind bars pending trial on a federal terrorism charge he faces in the case.
A federal judge ordered 50-year-old Lawrence Reed held after prosecutors outlined his extensive criminal history dating back more than three decades.
The attack Monday night on Chicago’s Blue Line L train has drawn national attention, primarily because the victim appeared to be targeted at random. Investigators say she was sitting on the train scrolling through her phone when she was approached from behind by Reed, doused with gasoline, and set ablaze seconds later.
Police arrested Reed the next morning, and federal prosecutors charged him with one count of committing a terrorist attack, which carries up to a life sentence. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois has said if the victim dies from her injuries, Reed could face the death penalty.
Bond called Reed a “clear danger to the community” and said his criminal offenses have grown more serious over time.
Reed has spent 32 years in and out of the criminal justice system, starting when he was about 18 years old, and has been arrested 72 times. Information provided by the Cook County Circuit Court shows over 60 criminal cases filed against Reed since 1993, including serious charges involving violent behavior.
He currently faces an active charge of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm after hitting a social worker in the face, causing serious injuries.
During his court appearance, Reed expressed concerns about his safety in society and agreed to be detained pending trial. Investigators have gathered substantial evidence through surveillance footage that captures the attack and Reed's actions leading up to it.
Officials have not released the victim’s identity as her family requests privacy during her recovery.
